The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) are a set of security guidelines designed to protect sensitive payment card information. Established by the Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council, these standards apply to all organizations that accept, process, or store credit card data. Compliance helps prevent data breaches and fraud. PCI DSS includes requirements for secure network architecture, encryption of cardholder data, and regular security testing. Organizations must regularly assess their security measures and ensure they meet the standards to maintain customer trust and protect financial information.